Smartphones and tablets have become so powerful that has abruptly changed the concept of workshops since the introduction of apps into the architecture industry. They have generated a more productive and efficient workflow on-site or on the go, covering different aspects of the field with versatility and variety. While some are specific to professionals, others appeal to every architecture enthusiast, with user-friendly interfaces, simplified navigations, and reachable information.
ArchDaily has selected the best architecture apps in 2023 featuring technical drawing and modeling essentials, sketching canvas for all levels, construction and management platforms, toolbox apps, and interfaces to get inspiration from.
Read on to discover the top applications available on IOS and Android.
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Autodesk and Autocad360
Visualize any AutoCAD or Revit files on the go. Autodesk users can view and upload 2D and 3D drawings regardless of what software they use to create them. They can also navigate large-scale models, review, and markup the designs, measure dimensions, and areas, and track the project status anytime, anywhere. FormIt 360's core functionality is free for commercial use. For those looking for advanced features like a real-time collaboration system, solar analysis, and integrated building analysis, one will need a Cloud Subscription.
BIMx by Graphisoft
Possessing a unique technology that integrates 2D and 3D building project navigation, this app allows architects to use Graphisoft files on any device and make measurement adjustments on-site. The free application gives you all the tools to explore the Hyper-model - both the 3D model and the attached 2D documentation.
SketchUp
A 3D modeling program, SketchUp is utilized in many different fields, such as engineering, interior and landscape design, film and video game creation, and architecture. It is renowned for having an easy-to-use interface that makes it possible for users to create, edit, and share 3D models.
The Artists
Sketchbook by Autodesk
Sketchbook works for all desktop and mobile devices. From quick sketches to fully finished artwork, the app works as a digital sketching paper free for everyone. The interface allows easy access to all the drawing tools, including steady stroke, symmetry tools, and perspective guides.
Morpholio Trace
Morpholio Trace gives the option to add comments on images, helping with sharing initial conceptual notions. The app comes in handy during the first phases of the designs as it allows you to scribble, draw, and express artistic thoughts, especially with its augmented reality option.
Procreate
Procreate is a digital illustration app designed for artists, illustrators, and designers. Primarily used on iPads, it allows for a wide range of brushes, layers, and advanced tools. It also boasts an extensive brush library and hero features like blending modes, time-lapse recording, and layer effects.
Concepts
Concepts serve as a versatile vector-based sketchbook enabling the transformation of concepts into tangible designs. It revolutionizes the ideation journey by providing a secure and adaptable workspace for refining ideas, structuring thoughts, and experimenting with various designs.
The Construction Site
Roomscan
Developed by Locometric, RoomScan Pro can create an entire floor plan using any phone. Easy to use, the process only requires the user to tap his screen and highlight walls while moving across the room, and the app generates the adequate floor plan seamlessly. In addition, the application can measure and draw stairs, facades, green spaces, etc. While the free version handles the basics pretty well, one will probably find it very limiting, and it would be worth it to splurge on RoomScan Pro.
Sun Seeker
This virtual solar compass helps with on-site analysis as it identifies the sun's position and path and illustrates visually the amount of sunlight received by the building through an interactive 3D view. Sunseeker is not only intended for architects but also has a wide range of users.
MagicPlan
MagicPlan uses your mobile's camera to measure spaces and create almost accurate plans that can be exported as PDF, DXF, or JPG. More accessible than other applications, you only have to stand still, preferably in the center, and let your device scan the room. The free version gets access to two projects, including all features.
The Futurist
PolyCam
Polycam lets you craft top-tier 3D models from images using any iPhone or iPad. It generates scans of areas utilizing the LiDAR sensor and snaps complete 360-degree photos. It also allows the user to modify 3D captures on their device and export them in more than twelve different file formats.
ARKi
An app for instant Augmented Reality experiences. Users can view, share, and communicate design with ease. ARki essential toolkit is free to use, with various features such as annotating, creating animations and sequences, and playing animations. ARki supports FBX files exported from most 3d software, including 3dsmax, Maya, Blender, Microstation, Sketchup, Archicad, Rhino, Cinema4D, and Revit.
Midjourney
Midjourney Ai is an artificial intelligence program and service developed and operated by an independent research lab based in San Francisco. It generates images based on written descriptions, often referred to as "prompts," similar to technology seen in OpenAI's DALL-E and Stable Diffusion.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on November 04, 2022, and updated on November 20, 2023.
